Workplace anxiety remains a significant issue among hybrid workers in the UK, impacting productivity.
- According to Fora, four in five employees experience anxiety at work since the pandemic, contributing to productivity decline.
- In 2023, over 28 million workdays were lost due to workplace anxiety, with workers averaging six missed days.
- The pressing challenge for employers is to create supportive environments mitigating workplace anxiety effectively.
- Leading psychologist Dr Craig Knight provides six key strategies for employers to support their workforce.
Workplace anxiety is increasingly prevalent among hybrid workers in the United Kingdom. Recent research from Fora reveals that an alarming four in five employees have faced anxiety in the workplace since the onset of the pandemic. This widespread anxiety has been linked to the UK’s ongoing decline in productivity, as evidenced by the fact that the average hybrid worker missed six days of work in 2023 due to anxiety, amounting to a staggering 28 million lost workdays overall.
In light of these findings, employers are being urged to prioritise creating supportive work environments that can help mitigate workplace anxiety. Dr Craig Knight, a prominent workplace behaviour psychologist, emphasises the need for enriched environments. These should include thoughtful elements such as art and considered interior designs that enhance the workplace atmosphere.
Understanding the diverse styles of work is another key component. Employers should strive to offer a range of spaces tailored to different work styles, recognising that not all tasks are suited to traditional settings. This flexibility in work environments can contribute significantly to alleviating anxiety.
Employee feedback plays a critical role in shaping effective workplace strategies, according to Dr Knight. While implementing every suggestion may not be feasible, listening to employees and incorporating their input into decision-making processes is crucial. Such engagement can foster a sense of inclusion and reduce anxiety levels.
Recharging is essential for maintaining productivity in high-pressure environments. Employers should provide suitable spaces for employees to recuperate and regain focus after demanding meetings or projects. Dr Knight notes that having dedicated areas for recharging can greatly enhance productivity and well-being.
Employers must remain vigilant for signs of anxiety, particularly following holidays or during deadlines. Identifying and addressing these signs promptly can prevent anxiety from escalating and affecting the workforce significantly.
Jennie Farmer, Fora’s Chief Marketing Officer, reiterates the importance of supportive environments. She highlights the need for workplaces to offer more than just basic amenities. Empowering employees through thoughtful workplace experiences is vital, she asserts, as it lays the foundation for a happier and more productive workforce.
Employers must act decisively to create environments that reduce workplace anxiety and enhance employee well-being.
